Ages + Stages

First-time moms learn a whole new world exists once they have a baby. But there is something about a second born child that instills grace and peace in a mama's heart.     Dear Second Baby,   While you didn’t make me a mom,...

A sweet first birthday, a sentimental last “first” ...   Throughout my journey to motherhood, I have had my share of health challenges. When I had my first, I was just happy my body was able to bring her to me...

Transitions can be tough on babies and their families. But the change that most often concerns parents is the one that transitions a baby from exclusively breastfeeding to solid food. My colleagues and I at Esse Health Pediatrics offer some tips...

Being a parent and an educator gives Rita a deeper insight into the parent-teacher relationship!   I've worked in education my entire life, but there was nothing that could prepare me for my own daughter's first day of Kindergarten last year....

This post originally ran in August, 2019.   Once upon a time, I thought I would be so structured with my toddler that we would have tot school in our basement every morning. Haha, yeah, that didn’t happen. What did happen,...

The year 2020 was a whole year of figure it out! We have learned to adapt, to compromise, to appreciate the smaller things in life. Some of us have learned to keep to ourselves, others have learned to stretch...

Start a half birthday tradition in your family!   Are you looking for an easy tradition to start with your family? One that nearly guarantees cake, smiles, and an easy spin on a classic song? If so, I invite you to...

Weather changing. Spring approaching. Let's get the heck out of STL! The beach? SURE- let's go! Sand. Sun. Family in tow. What could go wrong? Literally everything.   Day 2 was blue Not talking about the sky Mama, my tummy hurts. Vomit all around me. Second round of the bug  Are you kidding me? Someone...

Early morning wakings make all parents cringe; learn the three reasons why your baby is waking up too early and how to fix it once and for all! As a parent to little ones, at one time or another, this...

Do your kids do chores in your home?   I grew up in the suburbs of St. Louis and Cincinnati. Growing up, I didn’t have chores to do. When my mom asked me to feed the dog or bring in the...